DEAR EDITOR:
In the last few months The Dispatch has been covering the
downtown, reporting on the improved streetscape, Downtown Task
Force recommendations, and city policy changes designed to remove
obstacles from the downtown revitalization effort.
DEAR EDITOR:
In the last few months The Dispatch has been covering the downtown, reporting on the improved streetscape, Downtown Task Force recommendations, and city policy changes designed to remove obstacles from the downtown revitalization effort.
This week, I wanted to remind you that the most important component of our collective effort is you and your spending power. There is no other single force that will help us realize our goal of a vibrant downtown more then having people regularly spend time and money downtown. With that in mind, here is a partial list of ways to support the downtown:
1) Dinner and drinks at your favorite downtown restaurant: Whether you are in the mood for the formal elegance of a meal at Old City Hall, the casual scene at Happy Dog Pizza, the newly revamped interior at The Harvest Time or the old-time friendly service at the Gilroy Bowling Alley, downtown has a long list of locally owned restaurants to choose from. Skip the national franchises and treat yourself to some food with a local flair.
2) Lunch: There are just as many great choices for lunch downtown and in addition to the spots above, try one of these: Los Pericos’ Taqueria, The Courtyard Grill, Cielito Lindo’s, Baja Burgers, Carnitos Michoacan, Dragon Phoenix, or the Great China Garden.
3) Entertainment: There are several venues for live entertainment in the downtown and dropping in at The Strand Theatre, Old City Hall, The Gas Lighter or Happy Dog for some live music is always a winner. You can also strap on some ridiculous looking shoes and go bowling at The Gilroy Bowl, or shoot a game of pool at Garlic City Billiards.
4) Shopping: That’s right folks, you can still find things you need in the heart of Gilroy. Dick and M’Lady Bruhn’s clothing store has an excellent selection and the kind of personal service that cannot be duplicated elsewhere. You can get flowers at Frank’s Garden Florist or the Gilroy Flower Shop, buy some stamps at the post office, a guitar or lessons at the Gilroy Guitar Shop, or a motorcycle and accessories at The Gilroy Motorcycle Center.
5) Professional Services: real estate and insurance agents, dentists, doctors, attorneys, graphic artists, civil engineers, and architects are just some of the multi-talented people who have office space in the downtown. After your appointment you can grab a bite to eat and do a little shopping …
Hopefully you are already supporting the downtown with your spending choices, but if not, make a point to frequent the merchants that are already in the heart of our city. This will help attract new businesses, put more people on the street, and most importantly, add some enjoyment to your life.
See you downtown,
James Suner, Gilroy
President, Downtown Association
Submitted Wednesday, May 18 to ed****@****ic.com
The Golden Quill is awarded occasionally for a well-written letter.
